Paris isn’t the only happening area in
A young art collector, the homeowner trusted
Significant structural modifications were made, such as opening holes in floors, walls and ceilings to put in place new windows and the central staircase, echoing the work of American artist Gordon Matta-Clark.
“We had some access difficulties when installing the minimal sliding frames because the large glass panes were restrictively large, but we found a way”, remembers Steffensen and Le Grand. “The project took 1.5 years including planning approvals.”
Everything was carefully considered, from the biggest spatial changes to the smallest details. The duo drew inspiration from several sources for this raw and glam house filled with pieces by Ennio Chiggio, Kalou Dubus, Dominique Zimbacca, Marcel Delmotte,
“It was very important to shine a light on the strong colours we chose throughout the project, while not overdoing it so that the natural materials and textures could be appreciated too”, says Steffensen.
Douglas and oak wood, plaster, limewash paint, granite paving, steel, aluminium and zellige tiles add some warmth to the austere look. The neutral architectural finishes are complemented by touches of colour through the decoration, such as the canary/sherbet yellow in the kitchen, the mustard velvet sofa and cognac leather chair in the living room, and the terracotta Leliévre curtains in the bedroom furnished with a Pierre Chareau floor lamp and a Pierre Augustin Rose armchair.
“Harmony was found in juxtaposition and unexpected but complementary compositions”, conclude Steffensen and Le Grand. “No rules, periods or styles prevail; everything came naturally and instinctively.”
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